Costa Mesa’s vibrant taco scene is a tapestry of flavors and traditions. From bustling food trucks serving up authentic street-style tacos to cozy taquerias offering innovative fusion creations, Costa Mesa’s taco spots are a testament to the city’s love affair with this beloved dish. This guide highlights the top taco spots in the city.
In a nation crazy about tacos, every city boasts its champions. Costa Mesa, a melting pot of flavors and traditions, is a prime example. From humble food trucks to bustling taquerías, the search for the city’s best tacos is also a journey through its neighborhoods and a glimpse into the soul of its vibrant community. Join us as we explore the delicious tortillas and perfectly seasoned meats of Costa Mesa’s top taco spots
Que Vida Tacos Costa Mesa
9.6/10 (74 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 657-218-9897
Flavorful Birria tacosAttentive and friendly staffCozy atmosphere
Que Vida Tacos Costa Mesa offers a delightful dining experience with their flavorful menu and attentive staff. The skirt steak taco and Birria tacos are standouts, served with fresh lime, salsa, and peppers. Their breakfast options are enticing, and the Taco Tuesday deal with fresh margaritas is a great value. The cozy atmosphere and excellent service make this spot a must-visit for Mexican food connoisseurs.
Taco Mesa
9/10 (1855 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-642-0629
Fresh ingredientsReasonable pricingFriendly staff
Taco Mesa is a great spot for fresh and delicious Mexican food, with a reasonable pricing that won’t break the bank. The eclectic ambiance, including a heated enclosed patio area and a salsa bar, adds to the overall dining experience. The staff is friendly, with a special shoutout to the guy at the window who is pleasant, friendly, and helpful. While some may find the lack of flavor due to a light hand on the salt, it’s an easy fix by adding more to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a wet chorizo breakfast burrito or some tasty al pastor tacos, Taco Mesa is a solid choice for a satisfying meal with entertaining atmosphere.
Avila’s El Ranchito – Costa Mesa
9.2/10 (1868 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-642-1142
Exceptional serviceHomemade tortillasComforting classics
Avila’s El Ranchito in Costa Mesa is a must-visit for those seeking exceptional service and authentic Mexican cuisine. The homemade tortillas, passed through a window hot and fresh, are a unique touch that adds to the overall dining experience. The friendly staff, including servers like Rocky and Salvador, go above and beyond to make guests feel like part of the family. The menu offers comforting classics like posole and green chicken enchiladas in generous portions, ensuring a satisfying meal every time.
Baja Fish Tacos
9.4/10 (511 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-548-8487
Generous portionsFlavorful green sauceVariety at salsa bar
Baja Fish Tacos is a popular spot known for its tasty food and generous portions. The wet burrito was a standout, as the flavorful green sauce really elevated the carne asada burrito. The Ensenada style tacos were a hit as well, making it a must-try for fish taco fans. The salsa bar did not disappoint, offering a variety of options to enhance the meal. The self-service soda machine ensures you can stay hydrated while indulging in the delicious food. Whether you’re a local or just passing through the area, Baja Fish Tacos is a great choice for a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
Wahoo’s Fish Taco Bristol and Baker
9/10 (829 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-435-0130
Unique burrito optionsFriendly and helpful staffSoCal-style flavors
Wahoo’s Fish Taco Bristol and Baker remains a beloved lunch spot for many, offering delicious SoCal-style food with a variety of options to satisfy your cravings. The Hawaiian Onion Ring Burrito, featuring teriyaki steak and Maui Onion Rings, is a unique and flavorful choice that is sure to impress. While some customers have mentioned issues with orders being incorrect, the friendly staff at Wahoo’s are quick to rectify any mistakes and provide excellent customer service. The overall experience at Wahoo’s is worth a visit for a fresh and satisfying meal.
Tacos Madre Mexican Cocina
9/10 (294 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 657-247-0012
Birria PizzaHandmade tortillasFriendly staff
Tacos Madre Mexican Cocina is a hidden gem in Costa Mesa serving up delicious Mexican dishes that are flavorful and fresh. The Birria Pizza and street tacos are must-tries, with handmade tortillas that add an extra touch of authenticity. The friendly staff and laid-back ambiance make for a welcoming dining experience. While the parking may be limited, the food and service more than make up for it. Don’t miss out on the fantastic flavors at Tacos Madre!
Birrieria Guadalajara
9.2/10 (214 reviews)
| Directions | +1 949-287-6439
Trio TacosRamen birriaHorchata
Birrieria Guadalajara is a must-try destination for flavorful birria and tacos. The mild salsa adds a burst of flavor to every bite, while the lime, cilantro, and onion enhance the overall experience. The stewed beef is tender and packed with delicious taste, making every dish a satisfying meal at a reasonable price.
Salt & Lime Modern Taqueria
9.8/10 (61 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-662-0009
Unique flavor combinationsBeautifully presented dishesCreative cocktail selection
Salt & Lime Modern Taqueria offers unique and elevated flavor combinations with fresh, house-made ingredients beautifully presented. The Poke Nachos and Apple Braised Pork Belly are standout dishes that showcase the creativity of the menu. The Charred Jalapeño Margarita is a must-try, perfectly complementing the bold flavors of the tacos. The service is attentive and friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a day trip to Tulum. The Peppered Ribeye Steak and Crispy Chicken Tender tacos are crowd favorites that deliver on taste and quality. The restaurant’s commitment to using top-notch ingredients shines through in every dish, making Salt & Lime a standout taco spot in Costa Mesa.
Great Mex
9/10 (506 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-645-1884
Diverse TacosStellar Salsa BarAuthentic Flavor
Great Mex offers an outstanding dining experience that combines delicious tacos and excellent service in a cozy atmosphere. The diverse menu features al pastor, chicken, carne asada, and Mahi Mahi tacos that are all fresh and perfectly seasoned, accompanied by a stellar salsa bar. The breakfast burrito with bacon, potatoes, and cheese is a must-try, along with the authentic guacamole and bunuelitos. The friendly staff ensures a fast and efficient service, making Great Mex a top choice for Mexican cuisine in the Newport and Costa Mesa area.
Super A’s Mexican Food
9/10 (1028 reviews)
| Directions | +1 714-437-1824
Homemade chipsGenerous portionsLively atmosphere
Super A’s Mexican Food is a bustling spot filled with regulars enjoying traditional Mexican dishes. The homemade chips and salsa are a standout, with the beans topped with melted cheese receiving high praise from customers. The service is efficient, and the atmosphere is lively, complete with cute kids adding to the family-friendly vibe. While some wished for more red sauce on the enchiladas, the generous portions and quick service make this independent operation a must-visit for authentic Mexican cuisine.
La Cañada Grill
9.4/10 (222 reviews)
| Directions | +1 949-722-8330
Fresh tacosGrilled shrimpReasonable prices
La Cañada Grill is a welcoming spot with delicious tacos that won’t break the bank. The casual atmosphere is bright, and the staff is kind and attentive. The hard shell tacos are fresh and different than what you might expect, with the shredded beef being perfectly balanced in flavor. The grilled shrimp taco is a standout, paired with shredded cabbage and chipotle sauce. Even if you’re not a cilantro fan, there are plenty of options that hit the spot. The complimentary tortilla chips and salsa are a nice touch, making this a must-visit for any taco lover.
Vegan by El Zamorano
9.2/10 (366 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 657-247-5200
Flavorful plant-based cuisineCozy ambianceWide range of vegan options
Located in Costa Mesa, Vegan by El Zamorano is a gem of a find, offering all vegan Mexican cuisine. The handmade tortillas, meat substitutes, and cheeses all shined with delicious flavors. The beans, rice, and guacamole were seasoned nicely, although lacking a bit of a kick. The high-top seating inside and small patio area give a cozy ambiance to enjoy the flavorful dishes like the ‘fish’ taco made from Portobello mushrooms or the hard shell potato taco with cashew cream. Despite some minor hiccups like a strange odor and out-of-order outdoor heaters, the overall experience at this vegan Mexican spot is definitely worth a try.
Baja Fish Tacos
9.2/10 (1804 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-641-4836
Unique twistsFresh salsa barEfficient service
Baja Fish Tacos is a popular spot for those craving fresh and flavorful Mexican cuisine. The restaurant offers a unique twist on traditional dishes, such as white rice instead of Spanish rice and a variety of taco options beyond just fish. The salsa bar is a standout feature, always stocked with fresh options and juicy limes. The busy atmosphere adds to the excitement of dining in or taking out, with efficient cooks delivering tasty dishes in a timely manner. Whether you’re in the mood for shrimp taquitos, blackened fish burritos, or classic fish tacos, Baja Fish Tacos is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Tres Muchachos Wine Bar & Kitchen
9.4/10 (139 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-220-7811
Bold flavorsFresh seafoodGreat atmosphere
Tres Muchachos Wine Bar & Kitchen is a hidden gem that offers delicious Mexican cuisine with a twist. The flavors are bold, and the seafood options are fresh and well-executed. The menu offers a variety of options, including steak tacos and seafood pasta, all of which are worth trying. The atmosphere is inviting, with a great wine selection and friendly staff that adds to the overall dining experience.
Palenque Kitchen Costa Mesa
9/10 (247 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-402-9951
Vibrant atmosphereFlavorful salsaDelicious Camarones Al Ajillo
Palenque Kitchen in Costa Mesa offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere, making it perfect for a night out with friends. The margarita sampler may not be strong, but the Spicy Diablo and La Paloma are must-tries. The salsa is flavorful, and the music adds to the overall experience. The ceviche had a subtle sesame taste, while the Camarones Al Ajillo had a delicious sauce. The Zarandeado’s crispy skin and aioli make up for any lack of seasoning on the fish itself. The ambiance, music selection, and cleanliness elevate the dining experience, making Palenque Kitchen a great find for those looking for a fun night out.
Elys Tacos
9.4/10 (54 reviews)
Reliable late-night scheduleAl pastor tacosFriendly service
Elys Tacos offers a solid selection of Mexican street food, with standouts like al pastor tacos and chorizo tortas. The taco truck stays true to its schedule, making it a reliable spot for a late-night snack. While the food may not be life-changing, the affordable prices and friendly service make it a worthwhile stop for those craving Mexican-American fare in Costa Mesa.
Caló Kitchen + Tequila
9.2/10 (99 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-462-1445
Amazing cocktailsBeautiful ambianceImpressive tequila selection
Caló Kitchen + Tequila offers fantastic service and a beautiful atmosphere. The bar area may be loud, but the dining room is spacious and inviting, with cozy booths and fire pits. The Cadillac Margarita is a must-try, just remember to request light salt. The food may lack a bit of flavor, but offerings like veggie tacos, vegetarian enchiladas, and the Tres leeches dessert are standout options. The upscale interior design, comfortable outdoor patio, and impeccable service elevate the dining experience at Caló. Don’t miss out on the amazing cocktails and extensive tequila selection, making this an ideal spot for a special occasion.